Patricia Conte has a background in marketing communications and works as an independent writer. In 2010, she was given the opportunity to combine her love of writing and food when she started as a contributing writer for the Food channel...

These grilled tempeh skewers prove vegetarian barbecue can make your mouth water

Grilling season isn't over yet. Get this flavorful marinade together for veggies and tempeh, skewer them, and get your grill going.

I'm working the grill as long as I can this season, and that means I'll be making this Meatless Monday recipe for basil-lime grilled tempeh-and-tomato skewers a few more times. Once you give these a try, you'll likely do the same. The basil-lime marinade is so flavorful (and easy to make), and the tomatoes, onion and tempeh soak it up nicely.

Tempeh is a terrific meatless option for grilling. It stands up nicely on the grill, and when you see those gorgeous grill marks, well, you'll be clamoring for a plateful.

Basil-lime grilled tempeh-and-tomato skewers recipe

Serves 4

Ingredients:

1/2 cup lime juice

1/4 cup orange juice

2 garlic cloves, sliced thin

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

1/2 tablespoon honey

1/4 cup olive oil

5 basil leaves, chopped, plus extra for garnish

8 ounces tempeh, cut into 2- to 3-inch triangles

12 ounces heirloom (or regular) cherry tomatoes, cut in half

1 large onion, cut into 2-inch wedges

3 limes, cut into wedges

6 wooden grilling skewers, soaked for at least 1 hour

Directions:

To a small bowl, add 3 tablespoons of the mixture, and set it aside. Divide the remaining mixture in half, and add 1 portion to a large, zippered baggie along with the tempeh. Then add the second portion to another zippered baggie with the tomatoes and onions.

Seal the bags, and gently massage the liquid into the tempeh and the vegetables. Refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours, turning the baggies occasionally.

Remove the tempeh and the vegetables from the baggies (discard the liquid), and thread them, alternating, onto the skewers. Add 1 lime wedge to the bottom of each skewer, and another to the top.

Grill the skewers over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes total, turning a few times. Toward the end of grilling, brush the reserved liquid over both sides of the tempeh and vegetables.

Remove from the heat, and serve immediately with extra basil as garnish.